Tigers' play-by- play announcer Mario Impemba Creates Military Veterans Ticket Program with Detroit Tigers

Veterans from earlier eras will get to enjoy a Detroit Tigers game at Comerica Park as part of the Military Veteran's Program (MVP) - Mario Impemba's salute to those who served. MVP launches on Memorial Day when the Detroit Tigers host the Pittsburgh Pirates at 1:08 p.m.

MVP is a gift from FOX Sports Detroit play-by-play announcer Mario Impemba, in cooperation with the Detroit Tigers and the Detroit Tigers Foundation, an affiliate of Ilitch Charities. The program runs every Monday home game through the 2013 season, including May 27, June 17, August 26 and September 16.

"It's important to recognize the contributions our Veterans have made, including those from earlier conflicts," said Impemba. "During our visits with Veterans, I have learned that so many love the Tigers and baseball. This is a great way to give them an opportunity to enjoy a game at the ballpark and let them know how much we appreciate their service."

The program includes a ticket to the game, transportation to the ball park via the FOX Sports Detroit Fan Express, a t-shirt, food voucher and autographed photo of Mario Impemba. Veterans who participate in the program are selected from local Veterans organizations.

Impemba also created Operation Opening Day to provide fans currently serving in the United States Armed Forces a DVD of the Tigers home opener for the last five years.

MVP is part of the Detroit Tigers year-round support of troops and Veterans. Each year, the Detroit Tigers hold a special game to honor and recognize the sacrifice of the men and women serving in the United States Armed Forces and those that have served before them. Through the Detroit Tigers Armed Forces Game Ball Delivery program, the Detroit Tigers recognize a service member who has recently returned from deployment or home on leave during a tour of duty prior to most home games. The Detroit Tigers also visit Veterans at the Department of Veteran's Affairs Detroit Medical Center throughout the season.